System and methods for configuring dynamic graphical user interfaces
A system for configuring a graphical user interface. The system may include a mapping configuration database configured to: receive computer aided dispatch (CAD) and geographic information systems (GIS) data from at least one user system; store mapping configuration information; and receive information from a mapping configuration tool. The system may also include a publishing tool configured to: receive information from the mapping configuration database; publish information from the mapping configuration database as a data table; and provide instructions to display the CAD data and GIS data to a mapping application tool, the CAD data and GIS data being displayed with a plurality of dynamic icons capable of displaying selected data, each dynamic icon being configured to have at least one of resource icon, agency icon, status ring, or dynamic directional arrow, and the dynamic icons being displayed within a specified geographic area.
This application claims the benefit of priority of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/384,974, filed on Nov. 25, 2022, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
TECHNICAL FIELDThe present disclosure relates generally to computer-implemented systems and methods for configuring dynamic graphical user interfaces. More specifically, and without limitation, this disclosure relates to computer-implemented systems and methods for configuring a Graphical User Interface (GUI) for use in mapping applications and computer-aided dispatch (CAD). The systems and methods disclosed herein may be used in various applications and systems, including CAD, CAD-to-CAD, crowd-sourced public mapping systems, cloud-based mapping systems, and other systems.
BACKGROUNDDigital map interfaces traditionally provide users with in-depth information about their general surroundings, or for a specifically selected geographical area. Digital maps can be presented in the form of GUIs. However, mapping interfaces and mapping GUIs sometimes provide users with too much information or may present the information in a confusing manner. This is especially true when the map interface displays live, rather than static, content such as geolocation for buses, taxis, emergency medical services (EMS) vehicles, law enforcement vehicles, fire department vehicles, etc. Manipulating digital maps can be cumbersome and confusing to users, particularly in dynamic environments with multiple actors and multiple dynamic variables. The disclosed systems and methods provide solutions to these and other problems in the prior art.
SUMMARYIn view of the foregoing, embodiments of the present disclosure provide computer-implemented systems and methods for configuring dynamic GUIs. Certain disclosed embodiments provide methods and systems for configuring a GUI for maps involved in CAD, CAD-to-CAD, and other systems. Certain disclosed embodiments provide methods and systems to create a plurality of dynamic icons, wherein each icon may be configured to include a resource icon, agency icon, status ring, and a dynamic directional arrow. Some disclosed embodiments may provide a plurality of dynamic icons, wherein each dynamic icon may be configured to have one of several exemplary colors, each exemplary color being indicative of status. In other embodiments, each icon may be further configured to have “selected” and “hover” statuses. Certain disclosed embodiments may provide simple ways to convey complex directional, status, agency, and responder information about an incident to users and end-users. Other disclosed embodiments may additionally or alternatively provide systems and methods enabling users and end-users to readily configure and interpret maps in CAD and other systems. Certain disclosed embodiments may be configured to permit certain users to configure map settings using a configuration tool.
One aspect of the present disclosure is directed to a system for configuring a graphical user interface for dynamic maps. The system may include a mapping configuration database configured to receive CAD and geographic information systems (GIS) data from at least one computer-aided dispatch system. The system may also be configured to include a mapping configuration tool including online GIS or GIS fields, such as Environmental Systems Research Institute (ESRI) fields. The mapping configuration tool may enable users to customize map appearance and included layers. The system may also include a publishing tool configured for transmitting information to a client device, providing instructions to display the CAD and GIS data to a mapping application tool, with a plurality of dynamic icons capable of displaying selected CAD and GIS data for incidents, vehicles, and units.
Another aspect of the present disclosure is directed to a method to configure a graphical user interface for dynamic maps. The method may include configuring a mapping configuration database to receive CAD and geographic information systems (GIS) data from at least one computer-aided dispatch system. The method may also be configured to include a mapping configuration tool including online GIS or GIS fields, such as Environmental Systems Research Institute (ESRI) fields. The mapping configuration tool may be configured to enable users to customize map appearance and included layers. The method may also include configuring a publishing tool configured for transmitting information to a client device, to provide instructions to display the CAD and GIS data to a mapping application tool, with a plurality of dynamic icons capable of displaying selected CAD and GIS data for incidents, vehicles, and units. The method may further include selecting icon detail data to be associated with an incident, vehicle, or unit; generating a dynamic incident, vehicle, or unit icon containing the icon detail data; and displaying the incident, vehicle, or unit icon on the map.
It is to be understood that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the disclosed embodiments.
The accompanying drawings, which are part of this specification, illustrate several embodiments and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles and features of the disclosed embodiments. In the drawings:
Reference will now be made in detail to exemplary embodiments, discussed with regards to the accompanying drawings. In some instances, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings and the following description to refer to the same or like parts. Unless otherwise defined, technical and/or scientific terms have the meaning commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. The disclosed embodiments may be described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the disclosed embodiments. It is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and that changes may be made without departing from the scope of the disclosed embodiments. For example, unless otherwise indicated, method steps disclosed in the figures can be rearranged, combined, or divided without departing from the envisioned embodiments. Similarly, additional steps may be added or steps may be removed without departing from the envisioned embodiments. Thus, the materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and are not intended to be necessarily limiting.
As discussed elsewhere herein, interfaces and mapping GUIs sometimes provide users with too much information or may present the information in a confusing manner. This is especially true when the map interface displays live, rather than static, content such as geolocation for buses, taxis, emergency medical services (EMS) vehicles, law enforcement vehicles, fire department vehicles, etc. Manipulating digital maps can be cumbersome and confusing to users, particularly in dynamic environments with multiple actors and multiple dynamic variables. For example,
Disclosed embodiments may include systems and methods for configuring a GUI for dynamic maps involved in computer-aided dispatch (CAD), CAD-to-CAD and other systems. CAD may include systems and methods for dispatching taxicabs, couriers, field service technicians, mass transit vehicles, or emergency services assisted by computer. Disclosed embodiments may include systems and methods to create a plurality of dynamic icons; each dynamic icon may be configured to have a resource icon, agency icon, status ring, and a dynamic directional arrow. Further embodiments may include systems and methods for generating GUIs, configured to display a plurality of icons, each dynamic icon having one of several exemplary colors, each exemplary color being indicative of status. In other embodiments, each icon may be further configured to have “selected” and “hover” statuses. Disclosed embodiments may further include systems and methods for generating simple ways to convey complex directional, status, agency, and responder information about an incident to a user.
Disclosed embodiments may further include systems and methods enabling users to readily configure and interpret maps in CAD and other systems. Disclosed embodiments may permit certain users to configure map settings using a configuration tool. Consistent with disclosed embodiments, a processor may include any physical device or group of devices having electric circuitry that performs a logic operation an input or inputs. For example, a processor or at least one processor may include one or more integrated circuits (IC), including an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a microchip, a microcontroller, a microprocessor, all or part of a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a digital signal processor (DSP), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), a server, a virtual server, a virtual computing instance (e.g., a virtual machine or a container), or other circuits suitable for executing instructions or performing logic operations. The instructions executed by at least one processor may, for example, be pre-loaded into a memory integrated with or embedded into the controller or may be stored in a separate memory. The memory may include a Random Access Memory (RAM), a Read-Only Memory (ROM), a hard disk, an optical disk, a magnetic medium, a flash memory, other permanent, fixed, or volatile memory, or any other mechanism capable of storing instructions. In some embodiments, the at least one processor may include more than one processor. Each processor may have a similar construction, or the processors may be of differing constructions that are electrically connected or disconnected from each other. For example, the processors may be separate circuits or integrated in a single circuit. When more than one processor is used, the processors may be configured to operate independently or collaboratively and may be co-located or located remotely from each other. The processors may be coupled electrically, magnetically, optically, acoustically, mechanically or by other means that permit them to interact. Some disclosed embodiments may be software-based and may not require any specified hardware support.
Disclosed embodiments may include a system for configuring a graphical user interface, the system may include a mapping configuration database configured to receive computer-aided dispatch (CAD) and geographic information systems (GIS) data from at least one user system. A graphical user interface (GUI) may refer to a user interface through which users interact with electronic devices via visual indicator representations (e.g., icons). For example, users may interact with GUI icons, buttons, and menus displayed on a map. A GUI may be shown on devices such as tablet, computer, and/or smart phone. Receive may refer to collecting, getting, inputting, and/or accepting. For example, system may input CAD data from user system (e.g., computer aided dispatch system). A mapping configuration database may refer to a database containing configuration information necessary for data mapping. For example, mapping configuration database may include the data mapping workflow, workflow instructions, imported data, and/or settings to read source files. Data stored in the mapping configuration database may be configured to be published (e.g., to the publishing tool and/or Enterprise CAD Configuration). In certain embodiments, the mapping configuration database may be a SQL server containing all mapping configuration information stored in a simple way and designed to be able to publish to a mapping configuration database (e.g., Enterprise CAD database). In some embodiments, mapping configuration database may be further configured to customize one or more of a map launch location, a map color, an icon list, and a layer list.
In some embodiments, data stored in the mapping configuration database may be CAD settings and/or mapping configuration information. In certain embodiments, a mapping configuration database tool may be configured to maintain the schema of the mapping configuration database (e.g., CAD database) and other database artifacts that may be designed to be in sync with the mapping configuration tool. The schema of the database defines the structure of the data in the mapping configuration database and may or may not be manipulated by end users. CAD data may refer to information from a CAD system such as location information, available vehicle information, status information, prioritization information, and dispatch information. CAD datasets may vary in size, scale, and level of detail.
GIS data may refer to geographical and geospatial information stored in layers and integrated with geographic software programs so that spatial information can be created, stored, manipulated, analyzed, and visualized. GIS data may include vector data information from a GIS system. Non-limiting examples of GIS data may include aerial photo, elevation, and temperature information. It is to be appreciated CAD and GIS data may be integrated with software programs, such as CAD systems, mapping systems, automatic vehicle location systems, mobile data terminals, and unified CAD systems. Users may include any person sending, editing, or viewing the CAD data and GIS data and dynamic map. For example, users may include call takers, dispatchers, and/or supervisors. Call takers may use the GUI to identify incident locations. Dispatchers may use the GUI to send units to incidents. Supervisors may use the GUI to see a global view of the map. A user system may refer to a device the user is using that sends data (e.g., CAD data or GIS data) to the mapping configuration database (e.g., CAD database). For example, user system may involve a CAD system.
In some embodiments, the mapping configuration database may store mapping configuration information. Store mapping configuration information may include saving settings, a default mapping configuration, and/or a custom mapping configuration. Non-limiting examples of mapping configuration information may include, where the map starts when it launches, colors, dynamic icons, and layer lists. Mapping configuration information may update when a user changes a setting (e.g. Initial Location X, Initial Location Y) using the mapping configuration tool.
By way of non-limiting example,
By way of another non-limiting example,
By way of non-limiting example,
In some embodiments, step 502 may involve configuring database 308 in Microsoft SQL Server Management Studio. For example, a user may create a new mapping configuration database 308 with an SQL Server Management Studio. In certain embodiments, user may assign permission to other users, enabling the other users to run mapping configuration tool 310. In certain embodiments, the newly created database may be named “AdminConfig.” Within the SQL Server Management Studio, the user may also select “Connect” to run the mapping configuration tool 310 by configuring a connection string.
By way of another non-limiting example,
Disclosed embodiments may include a publishing tool configured to receive information from the mapping configuration database, publish information from the mapping configuration database as a data table, and provide instructions to display the CAD and GIS data to a mapping application tool. Publishing tool may allow users to publish and/or save settings for a select group and/or all groups. Group may refer to profiles with unique characteristics. Groups may have different access controls and/or settings. In certain embodiments, mapping configuration tool 310 (e.g., Configuration Tool) may publish to mapping configuration database 308 (Configuration Database) settings by using Workstation API. In some embodiments, user may select which group and/or groups to publish from a pop-up menu. The next time the map opens, the saved settings may be connected and/or appear for the selected group. Publishing tool 312 may be configured to publish information from mapping configuration database 308 into a data table. Data table may refer to a structure including columns, rows, and cells that contain specific values including information contained from mapping configuration database 308. Data table may be stored and updated as needed or automatically. Data table may be in XML format. An aspect of an embodiment of mapping configuration tool 310 may include a data table inside an Enterprise CAD database that stores XML to represent map settings, layers, etc. Systems and methods may pull from the data table to render mapping configuration information. Mapping application tool 314 may provide users access to the data and/or data table within mapping configuration database 308 to alter the data. For example, a user (e.g., call taker, dispatcher, supervisor) may change the way the map behaves to accommodate an agency's desired behavior. Publishing tool 312 may send instructions to mapping application tool 314 to display the CAD data and GIS data in a dashboard and/or other visual interface.
In some embodiments, the mapping application tool may update CAD data in response to map appearance customization. Updates CAD data in response to map appearance customization may refer to updating data in mapping configuration database 308 and/or data table being updated when a user alters CAD data and/or GIS data using mapping configuration tool 314. For example, a user may adjust a map setting (e.g., zoom out factor) which gets adjusted in the data table.
In some embodiments, the CAD data and GIS data may be displayed with a plurality of dynamic icons capable of displaying selected data for at least one of incidents, vehicles, or units. Dynamic icons may refer to active symbols and/or graphic representations on a screen that represent CAD data 302 and GIS data 306, may update regularly from the user system 302, and respond to user commands via mapping configuration tool 310. For example, dynamic icons may appear on a map corresponding to CAD data 304 and GIS data 306 information (e.g. new incident or unit). Further, each dynamic icon may be configured to have at least one of resource icon, agency icon, status ring, or dynamic directional arrow, and the dynamic icons being displayed within a specified geographic area. Resource icon may refer to a symbol that indicates particular personnel, teams, facilities, equipment, and/or supplies related to an agency (e.g, fire department, EMS services). For example, resource icons may depict specific to fire department, law enforcement and/or emergency medical services (EMS) vehicles and/or units. Non-limiting examples of fire department resource icons may include engines, inspectors, engines, and/or hazmat. Agency icon may refer to a symbol that indicates a particular division of government with a specific function offering a particular kind of assistance. Agency icons may depict a symbol specific to fire department, law enforcement, and/or EMS agencies. For example, flames may refer to fire department. Status ring may refer to a circle around an icon that indicates a particular state. For example, status ring color may indicate resource is on its way. Dynamic directional arrow may provide more detailed direction to where the unit and/or incident is occurring. For example, the dynamic directional arrow may point to a specific coordinate on the map where the resource is located. Specified geographic area may refer to a region defined by the user and/or region configured to display. This specified geographic area may correspond to, for example, a town, county, judicial jurisdiction, etc. End-users of embodiments of the disclosed GUI for dynamic maps may include call takers, dispatchers, and supervisors, for example within an emergency response call center. An aspect of an embodiment of the GUI for maps used in CAD systems may include “units” displayed as blue dots and “incidents” displayed as yellow dots. As shown in
In some embodiments, the mapping configuration database may include a hover setting. The hover setting may be enabled when the user's mouse is over a dynamic icon for more than a predetermined time (e.g., 1 second) and no mouse button has been clicked. While hovering over an icon, additional details may display. For example, with a vehicle icon, vehicle type, status name, and agency name may display. When no mouse pointer is over a dynamic icon, the icon may be in the default state. Default state settings may be changed using the mapping configuration tool. In further embodiments, the mapping application tool may display the CAD and GIS data in a dashboard with the GUI. Dashboard may refer to a visual interface displaying various types of visual data in one place. Dashboard may be adjustable by user.
Disclosed embodiments may include mapping configuration tool which may be configured to enable users access to data (e.g., CAD data and GIS data) within the mapping configuration database, alter the CAD data and the GIS data, and adjust map behavior. Further, mapping configuration tool 310 may comprise GIS fields, where mapping configuration database 308 may enable users to customize map appearance, a plurality of map settings, and a plurality of map layers. GIS fields may refer to a property that can be assigned to any point or area of space to represent a quality, characteristic, and/or property of that point and/or area of space. For example, users may access data (e.g., CAD data and GIS data) and adjust settings such as zoom in factor, initial x/y location, and initial scale. Further, user may change the way the map behaves to accommodate the agency's desired behavior. Mapping configuration tool 310 may be compatible with a mapping configuration database 308 and other database artifacts in sync with the mapping configuration tool 310.
By way of non-limiting example, Table I below is a first table depicting exemplary online GIS map settings. Exemplary embodiments may include a field for “Map Settings Name,” which is used to reference a unique group of map settings inside the mapping configuration tool. Further exemplary embodiments may include a “Zoom In Factor” which indicates the amount to zoom in on a double-click/mousewheel. For example, if the current map scale is 1:50,000, a value of 2 would indicate to zoom in to 1:25,000. Other exemplary embodiments may include a “Zoom Out Factor,” which indicates an amount to zoom out on a double-click/mousewheel. For instance, if the map scale is 1:50,000, a value of 2 would indicate to zoom out to 1:100,000. Other exemplary embodiments may include a “Map Theme” setting, which contains the default colors of icons and text, such as Dark mode and Light mode. Exemplary embodiments may include “Initial Location X,” “Initial Location Y,” and “Initial Location Z,” which respectively coordinate to the X, Y, and Z coordinate where the user wants the map to open. Other embodiments may include an “Initial Location WKID” which corresponds to a well-known ID matching the Initial Location coordinates. Still, other embodiments may include an “Initial Scale,” through which a user may select an initial map scale used when the map first opens. Further exemplary embodiments may include a “Coordinate Zoom Scale” setting, corresponding to the map scale value when zooming to a coordinate. Exemplary embodiments may also include a “Master Map WKID” setting, corresponding to a master well-known ID for the map. If selected, all points on the map may be converted to this setting, which defaults to 3857—web Mercator. Exemplary embodiments may also include settings for “Minimum Scale” and “Maximum Scale,” which respectively correspond to the minimal and maximum scale of how far the map is configured to zoom out. In such embodiments, if the user enters zero, there would be no restrictions. Exemplary embodiments may also provide a setting for “CAD Operational Layers Display Header Text,” which is the text that the user wants to display for a CAD Operational Layers group, such group found in a layer list. Further embodiments may include a setting for “Locator URI,” which is the URI for the designated location's data.
By way of non-limiting example Table II below is a second table depicting other exemplary online GIS map settings. Exemplary embodiments may be configured to permit users to make mapping sketch tools visible on a “Tools menu,” via selecting an “Enable Sketch Tools” field. Other exemplary embodiments may enable users to configure a map having different symbols for incidents and vehicles by selecting “Use Unique CAD Symbols” or another similar field. For example, certain embodiments may be configured to enable the map to display exemplary symbols as shown in
By way of non-limiting example, Table III below is a third table depicting exemplary online GIS map settings. As depicted in Table III disclosed embodiments may be configured to enable the user to customize the columns of information that appear on an “Incident popup.” An exemplary “Incident popup” is shown in
Certain disclosed embodiments map may also permit a user to configure the way vehicle icons are displayed on resulting map. For instance, and as depicted in Table III, an aspect of an embodiment of the present disclosure may be configured to enable users to: (a) name the column displayed about a vehicle when hovering (“Vehicle Label Column Name”); and (b) configure how close the map will zoom onto a vehicle when the user zooms on the incident from the command line (“Vehicle Zoom Scale”).
By way of non-limiting example, Table IV is a fourth table depicting exemplary online GIS map settings. As depicted in
Other exemplary online GIS map settings contained within the disclosed embodiments may enable user to configure the way “clusters” of incident and/or vehicle icons are displayed on map. Clustering may be enabled based on the zoom level and proximity of incidents and/or units. These exemplary online GIS map settings are described in Tables IV and V. For instance, an aspect of a disclosed embodiment may be configured to permit user to select and to merge clusters that are close together or overlapping (e.g., via “Merge Clusters” field). Another aspect of an embodiment may be configured to enable a user to specify the size of a graphic identifying a cluster of incidents, and/or vehicle icons. A further aspect of an embodiment may be configured to enable user to select an option to use different colors to identify cluster of incidents or cluster of vehicles. Likewise, another aspect of an embodiment may be configured to permit users to select (a) a default color for displaying all clusters; (b) a separate default color for displaying a cluster containing only vehicles; and (c) a separate default color for displaying a cluster containing only incidents. Exemplary representations of clustering icons are shown in
In some embodiments, the mapping configuration database may include a setting for enabling users to add map layers. Map layers may include a basemap layer, a CAD operational layer, and an operational layer. Map layers may function to apply a visual layer of data over the map and may be enabled and/or disabled. Basemap layer may refer to a reference map to overlay data from layers and visualize geographic information. Basemap layers may consist of multiple feature, raster, or web layers. For example, basemap layer may provide overall context to the map by including geographic features such as boundaries, streets, cities, and place names. Operational layers may be placed on top of the basemap layer. Independent from the basemap, operational layers may be interactive and provide further context to a geographical region. Information presented in a CAD operational layer may come from the CAD data 304 in the mapping configuration database 308. For example, CAD operational layer may include dynamic icon information (e.g., agency, resource). Information presented in an operational layer may come from external offline data or data from public sources and/or other agencies nearby. For example, operational layer may include online Environmental Systems Research Institute (ESRI) information and/or weather data. In some embodiments, each map layer may be configured to be online or offline. Online layers may provide the most up-to-date data. CAD data that changes frequently (e.g., weather information, unit/incident information) may be updated in real-time with online layers. Offline layers may be used for data that does not change or update frequently. For example, offline layers may include parcel record, public works asset, fire hydrant, light pole, and traffic signal information.
By way of non-limiting example,
In some embodiments, mapping configuration database customizes the appearance of CAD data on a map with data transforms. Data transforms may refer to a way of converting, cleaning, and/or structuring data. Table VI below displays an exemplary list of data transforms. Non-limiting examples of data transforms may include entity type, entity column, operator, matching value, modified column, modified value, is active, and sort order.
By way of non-limiting example, in
Additionally or alternatively, certain embodiments may be configured to include a “Modified Value” field in which the user may enter a second value that they want to use for the “Matching Value,” such as an icon that the user wants to appear for that value. Certain embodiments may further be configured to allow the user to activate an “Is Active” setting. Certain embodiments may also be configured to include a “Sort Order” field, which may enable the user to designate the order in which the map applies the specified settings. In certain embodiments, user may enter 0 for the highest priority and up to 255 for the lowest priority. The disclosed embodiments may be further configured to permit the user to select to save the data transforms.
The mapping configuration database may also be configured to add one or more profiles. Profiles may refer to groups and/or end users.
Certain embodiments may be configured to enable a user to select from listed CAD Data Transformations. For instance,
Disclosed embodiments may be configured to display a map window with a number of areas, for example: (1) a ribbon bar, (2) a work area, (3) a layer list; (4) a status bar; and (5) a details panel. Further embodiments may be configured to display other additional areas in the map window. Likewise, other embodiments may be configured to display fewer areas. Importantly, disclosed embodiments of the map window may be configured to use functionality ordinarily present in virtual maps, such as: (a) clicking and dragging to see other parts of the map; (b) zooming in and out using the scroll function on a mouse or trackpad; (c) zooming in and out using + and − buttons in the lower right corner of the map; and (d) zooming to a particular area by pressing the left shift key and clicking and dragging the area that the end-user desires to zoom into.
By way of non-limiting example, disclosed embodiments may be configured to enable user to view a summary of map layers assigned to a profile by: (1) selecting a profile; (2) selecting to view a map layers summary; and (3) selecting a group for which the user wants to see layer lists. For example,
Importantly, certain embodiments disclosed herein may enable an end-user to configure the map window to a great extent. Some disclosed embodiments may be configured to enable an end-user to change: (a) the base layer of the map; (b) icons and colors for incidents and units to identify statuses, types of units or incidents, and priority; (c) identifier information for incidents and units; (d) texts that appears when an end-user hovers over an incident or unit; (e) color of cluster icons based on the types of incidents or units within the cluster such as one color for only incidents, another color for only units, and a third color for a cluster that has both incidents and units; (f) the ability to rotate icons to see directional travel data for units. Disclosed embodiments may be further configured to enable the end-user to center the map, for example by selecting “center” on the ribbon bar (e.g., ribbon bar 1100 as shown in
A further aspect of the disclosed embodiments may include a status bar configured to display the connection status between the CAD system and the map, as well as error messages.
Disclosed embodiments may also be configured such that, if a map contains multiple layers, a details panel may display features of those layers when an end-user selects an item on the map. Generally, disclosed embodiments may be configured to enable the details panel 1100D to display the following information for unit or incident, once an end-user selects unit or incident: (a) Unit or Incident Number; (b) Sector Number and Name; (c) Priority Code and Name; (d) Address; (e) Problem Code; (f) Date when incident or unit was Last Updated; (g) Agency ID and Name; (h) X-/Y-location coordinates of the unit or incident; and/or (i) Assigned units. Certain disclosed embodiments may be configured to have similar functionality when an end-user selects a cluster—in that instance, the details panel 1200 could provide information about each of the incidents or units in that cluster. An aspect of an embodiment may be configured to display an asterisk at the end of the label name for primary units. For example,
Certain disclosed embodiments may be further configured to enable end-user to apply filters to map work areas. For instance, various embodiments may be configured to include: a “Scope” tab on one side of map window; an “Agencies” tab in which end-user may select agencies on which to apply filter; a “Sectors” tab in which end-user may select sectors on which to apply filter; and/or a “Clear Scope” tab by which end-user may clear existing filters. Certain disclosed embodiments may also be configured to permit end-user to filter incidents and vehicles according to their individual map workspace. Thus, an aspect of an embodiment may include a filtering triage icon in a corner of map work area, configured such that the end-user may add a row of filter criteria by completing predetermined fields describing the information to filter. The predetermined fields may include “Type” (e.g., incidents or vehicles), “Field,” “Operator” (e.g., “contains,” “equals,” or “not equals”), and/or “Value.” A further aspect of the embodiment may be configured to permit the end-user to add additional rows of filter criteria. A further aspect of the embodiment may be designed to cause filtering triage icon to change color when filtering criteria are applied by the user. Certain disclosed embodiments may also be configured to allow an end-user to save and name an already-made filter setup in order to use this already-made filter set-up more easily in the map workspace. In such embodiments, the map workspace may be configured to generate a drop-down list from filtering triage icon which contains lists of all saved filters.
For instance,
Certain disclosed embodiments may be configured to display a dynamic icon for a vehicle, incident, or unit, the dynamic icon containing a directional arrow on the outside of a colored ring, the colored ring containing a resource icon and an agency icon.
The foregoing disclosed embodiments may be further configured to provide a graphical user interface (GUI) for dynamic maps to be viewed and used by individuals (e.g., public citizens). By way of non-limiting example, in some embodiments, the system for configuring a GUI may include a cloud-based mapping system. The cloud-based mapping system may be configured to include a map client, track features for dynamic objects, and incorporate single sign-on protocols. Certain embodiments of the foregoing map configuration tool may be further developed and configured to permit users and end-users to select CAD data, GIS data, and other data from local agencies that report crime, for release on a dynamic crowd-sourced public map. For instance, an aspect of an embodiment may be configured to permit an end-user to select (a) specific types of crime incidents for display on the public dynamic map, and/or (b) whether to release sex offender data on the dynamic public map. An aspect of an embodiment is further configured to enable an end-user to filter CAD, GIS, and other data from local agencies that report crime by (a) date, and (b) crime type; and then enable such data to be displayed on a dynamic public map. These embodiments would permit individuals to, for example, get a visual depiction of criminal activity in their area, thus facilitating interaction with the GUI.
Such embodiments may be configured to display aspects of the disclosed GUI for dynamic public maps such that individuals may (a) view a plurality of dynamic incident, vehicle, and unit icons on a map; (b) select an already-displayed dynamic incident, vehicle, or unit icon and view generalized data related to the specific dynamic icon; and (c) search and zoom in/out on the map to view desired geographical areas. Such embodiments may be further configured to enable individuals to (a) filter icons by date and crime type; (b) set specific crime alerts around specific addresses; (c) set automatic notifications when specified crimes happen around a selected geographic area; (d) create charts and reports based on crime incidents displayed on the map; (e) display the distance from any dynamic icon (i.e., crime) to any address of interest; and (f) print a selected map area.
Exemplary GUIs for dynamic crowd-sourced public maps as depicted in
Embodiments of a cloud-based mapping system may be configured to incorporate single sign-on (SSO) protocols whereby one password grants access to the entire system-application and database. Embodiments of such system may be configured by certain users at an agency to, among other things, (a) streamline approval processes and notifications; (b) configure workflow to include only procedures actually used by the agency; and (c) automate and replicate paper documents most often used by the agency in day-to-day operations. Like the foregoing disclosure, embodiments may be configured to provide custom fields, forms, reports, dashboards, and workflows for the targeted users and end-users. For instance,
Exemplary GUIs for dynamic crowd-sourced public maps as depicted in
The present disclosure has been presented for purposes of illustration. It is not exhaustive and is not limited to precise forms or embodiments disclosed. Modifications and adaptations of the embodiments will be apparent from consideration of the specification and practice of the disclosed embodiments. For example, the described implementations include software, but systems and methods consistent with the present disclosure can be implemented with software and hardware. In addition, while certain components have been described as being interrelated through specific fields, such components may be integrated with one another or distributed in any suitable fashion.
Moreover, while illustrative embodiments have been described herein, the scope includes any and all embodiments having equivalent elements, modifications, omissions, combinations (e.g., of aspects across various embodiments), adaptations and/or alterations based on the present disclosure. The elements in the claims are to be interpreted broadly based on the language employed in the claims and not limited to examples described in the present specification or during the prosecution of the application, which examples are to be construed as nonexclusive. Further, the steps of the disclosed methods can be modified in any manner, including reordering steps and/or inserting and/or deleting steps.
The features and advantages of the disclosure are apparent from the detailed specification, and thus, it is intended that the appended claims cover all systems and methods falling within the true spirit and scope of the disclosure. As used herein, the indefinite articles “a” and “an” mean “one or more.” Similarly, the use of a plural term does not necessarily denote a plurality unless it is ambiguous in the given context. Words such as “and” or “or” mean “and/or” unless specifically directed otherwise. Further, since numerous modifications and variations will readily occur from studying the present disclosure, it is not desired to limit the disclosure to the exact construction and operation illustrated and described, and accordingly, all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to, falling within the scope of the disclosure.
Other embodiments will be apparent from consideration of the specification and practice of the embodiments disclosed herein. It is intended that the specification and examples be considered as example only, with a true scope and spirit of the disclosed embodiment being indicated by the following claims.
According to some embodiments, the operations, techniques, and/or components described herein can be implemented by a device or system, which can include one or more special-purpose computing devices. The special-purpose computing devices can be hard-wired to perform the operations, techniques, and/or components described herein, or can include digital electronic devices such as one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs) or field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) that are persistently programmed to perform the operations, techniques, and/or components described herein, or can include one or more hardware processors programmed to perform such features of the present disclosure pursuant to program instructions in firmware, memory, other storage, or a combination. Such special-purpose computing devices can also combine custom hard-wired logic, ASICs, or FPGAs with custom programming to accomplish the technique and other features of the present disclosure. The special-purpose computing devices can be desktop computer systems, portable computer systems, handheld devices, networking devices, or any other device that can incorporate hard-wired and/or program logic to implement the techniques and other features of the present disclosure.
The one or more special-purpose computing devices can be generally controlled and coordinated by operating system software, such as iOS, Android, Blackberry, Chrome OS, Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows Server, Windows CE, Unix, Linux, SunOS, Solaris, VxWorks, or other compatible operating systems. In other embodiments, the computing device can be controlled by a proprietary operating system. Operating systems can control and schedule computer processes for execution, perform memory management, provide file system, networking, I/O services, and provide a user interface functionality, such as a graphical user interface (“GUI”), among other things.
Furthermore, although aspects of the disclosed embodiments may be described as being associated with data stored in memory and other tangible computer-readable storage mediums, one skilled in the art will appreciate that these aspects can also be stored on and executed from many types of tangible computer-readable media, such as secondary storage devices, like hard disks, floppy disks, or CD-ROM, or other forms of RAM or ROM. Accordingly, the disclosed embodiments may be not limited to the above described examples, but are instead defined by the appended claims in light of their full scope of equivalents.
Moreover, while illustrative embodiments have been described herein, the scope includes any and all embodiments having equivalent elements, modifications, omissions, combinations (e.g., of aspects across various embodiments), adaptations or alterations on the present disclosure. The elements in the claims are to be interpreted broadly based on the language employed in the claims and not limited to examples described in the present specification or during the prosecution of the application, which examples are to be construed as non-exclusive. Further, the steps of the disclosed methods can be modified in any manner, including by reordering steps or inserting or deleting steps.
Itis intended, therefore, that the specification and examples be considered as example only, with a true scope and spirit being indicated by the following claims and their full scope of equivalents.
Claims
1. A system for displaying data comprising:
- a mapping configuration database configured to: receive computer aided dispatch (CAD) and geographic information systems (GIS) data from at least one user system; store mapping configuration information; and receive mapping configuration information from a mapping configuration tool; and a publishing tool configured to: receive the CAD and GIS data from the mapping configuration database; publish information from the mapping configuration database as a data table; and provide instructions to display the CAD data and the GIS data on a GIS map via a mapping application tool, the CAD data and the GIS data being displayed with a plurality of dynamic icons with selected data for at least one of incidents, vehicles, or units, each dynamic icon includes a dynamic directional arrow pointing to a specific coordinate on the GIS map and at least one of a resource icon, an agency icon, and a status ring, wherein the dynamic icons are displayed within a specified geographic area, wherein the mapping configuration tool accesses the stored CAD data and the stored GIS data from the mapping configuration database, and, in response to a user input received via the mapping configuration tool, alters the CAD data and the GIS data, and adjusts the GIS map behavior by customizing one or more of the GIS map's appearance, settings, or layers.
2. The system of claim 1, wherein:
- the mapping configuration database comprises a hover setting; and
- the mapping application tool displays the CAD data and the GIS data in a dashboard within a graphical user interface.
3. The system of claim 1, wherein:
- the mapping configuration database comprises a setting for enabling users to add the plurality of map layers;
- the plurality of map layers comprise a basemap layer, a CAD operational layer, and an operational layer; and
- the mapping configuration database is configured to enable users to edit map layer settings.
4. The system of claim 1, wherein:
- the mapping configuration database customizes the appearance of CAD data on a map with Data Transforms, the Data Transforms comprising: Entity Type, Entity Column, Operator, Matching Value, Modified Column, Modified Value, Is Active, and Sort Order; and
- the mapping configuration database is further configured to customize one or more of a map launch location, a map color, an icon list, and a layer list.
5. The system of claim 1, wherein the online GIS fields comprise:
- at least one of a Map Settings Name, a Zoom In Factor, a Zoom Out Factor, or a Map Theme;
- at least one of an Initial Location X, an Initial Location Y, an Initial Location Z, an Initial Location Well-Known ID (WKID), or an Initial Scale;
- at least one of a Coordinate Zoom Scale, a Master Map WKID, a Minimum Scale, a Maximum Scale, a CAD Operational Layers Display Header, or a Locator Uniform Resource Identifier (URI);
- at least one of an Enable Sketch Tool, a Unique CAD Symbols, a Rotate Vehicles, or a CAD Graphic Size;
- at least one of an Incident Default Icon, a Vehicle Default Icon, a Call Default Icon, an Incident Default Color Hex, a Vehicle Default Color Hex, a Call Default Color Hex; and
- at least one of a Layers Tolerance, a Hover Callout Delay, a Callout Dismiss Delay, an Incident Label Column Name, and an Incident Zoom Scale.
6. The system of claim 1, wherein:
- the mapping application tool updates the CAD data in response to map appearance customization; and
- the mapping configuration database is configured to enable a user to add one or more profiles.
7. The system of claim 1, wherein:
- the mapping configuration database is configured to display a map layer summary of a profile;
- the mapping configuration database further comprises a ribbon bar, the ribbon bar being configured to display the dynamic icons for changing what appears on the dynamic map; and
- the plurality of map layers includes a basemap, and operational layers.
8. The system of claim 1, wherein:
- the mapping configuration database further comprises a details panel, the details panel displaying features of the plurality of map layers; and
- the details panel comprises one or more of a Unit or Incident Number, a Sector ID, a Sector Name, a Priority Code, a Priority Name, an Address, a Problem Type, a Time Last Updated, an Agency ID, an Agency Name, and X-/Y-location coordinates.
9. The system of claim 1, wherein:
- the mapping configuration tool comprises map sketch tools, a status bar, and a user to filter map work areas;
- the mapping configuration database is configured to permit the user to filter incidents and vehicles;
- the dynamic icons are in a hover state until the user selects one of the dynamic icons; and
- the mapping configuration database selects the CAD data and the GIS data for release on a dynamic crowd-sourced public map, the dynamic crowd-sourced public map being configured to: enable an end-user to select specific types of incidents for display; enable the end-user to filter the CAD data and the GIS data; and enable the end-user to display the CAD data and the GIS data on client devices.
10. The system of claim 1, further comprising a cloud-based mapping system, wherein:
- the cloud-based mapping system is configured to: include a map client; track features for dynamic objects; and incorporate single sign-on protocols.
11. A method for displaying data, comprising:
- configuring a mapping configuration database to: receive computer aided dispatch (CAD) and geographic information systems (GIS) data from at least one user system; store mapping configuration information; and receive mapping configuration information from a mapping configuration tool,
- configuring a publishing tool to: receive the CAD and GIS data from the mapping configuration database; publish information from the mapping configuration database as a data table; and provide instructions to display the CAD data and the GIS data on a GIS map via a mapping application tool, the CAD data and the GIS data being displayed with a plurality of dynamic icons with selected data for at least one of incidents, vehicles, or units, each dynamic icon includes a dynamic directional arrow pointing to a specific coordinate on the GIS map and at least one of a resource icon, an agency icon, and a status ring, wherein the dynamic icons are displayed within a specified geographic area, wherein the mapping configuration tool accesses the stored CAD data and the stored GIS data from the mapping configuration database, and, in response to a user input received via the mapping configuration tool, alters the CAD data and the GIS data, and adjusts the GIS map behavior by customizing one or more of the GIS map's appearance, settings, or layers.
12. The method of claim 11, wherein:
- the mapping configuration database comprises a hover setting; and
- the mapping application tool displays the CAD data and the GIS data in a dashboard within a graphical user interface.
13. The method of claim 11, wherein:
- the mapping configuration database comprises a setting for enabling add a plurality of map layers;
- the plurality of map layers comprise a basemap layer, a CAD operational layer, and an operational layer; and
- the mapping configuration database is configured to enable users to edit map layer settings.
14. The method of claim 11, wherein:
- the mapping configuration database customizes the appearance of the CAD data on a map with Data Transforms, the Data Transforms comprising Entity Type, Entity Column, Operator, Matching Value, Modified Column, Modified Value, Is Active, and Sort Order; and
- the mapping configuration database is further configured to customize one or more of a map launch location, a map color, an icon list, and a layer list.
15. The method of claim 11, wherein the online GIS fields comprise:
- at least one of a Map Settings Name, a Zoom In Factor, a Zoom Out Factor, or a Map Theme;
- at least one of an Initial Location X, an Initial Location Y, an Initial Location Z, an Initial Location Well-Known ID (WKID), or an Initial Scale;
- at least one of a Coordinate Zoom Scale, a Master Map WKID, a Minimum Scale, a Maximum Scale, a CAD Operational Layers Display Header, or a Locator Uniform Resource Identifier (URI);
- at least one of an Enable Sketch Tool, a Unique CAD Symbols, a Rotate Vehicles, or a CAD Graphic Size;
- at least one of an Incident Default Icon, a Vehicle Default Icon, a Call Default Icon, an Incident Default Color Hex, a Vehicle Default Color Hex, a Call Default Color Hex; and
- at least one of a Layers Tolerance, a Hover Callout Delay, a Callout Dismiss Delay, an Incident Label Column Name, and an Incident Zoom Scale.
16. The method of claim 11, wherein:
- the mapping application tool updates the CAD data in response to map appearance customization; and
- the mapping configuration database is configured to enable a user to add one or more profiles.
17. The method of claim 11, wherein:
- the mapping configuration database is configured to display a map layer summary of a profile;
- the mapping configuration database further comprises a ribbon bar, the ribbon bar being configured to display dynamic icons for changing what appears on the dynamic map; and
- the plurality of map layers includes a basemap, and operational layers.
18. The method of claim 11, wherein:
- the mapping configuration database further comprises a details panel, the details panel displays features of the plurality of map layers; and
- the details panel comprises one or more of a Unit or Incident Number, a Sector ID, a Sector Name, a Priority Code, a Priority Name, an Address, a Problem Type, a Time Last Updated, an Agency ID, an Agency Name, and X-/Y-location coordinates.
19. The method of claim 11, wherein:
- the mapping configuration tool comprises map sketch tools, a status bar, and a user to filter map work areas;
- the mapping configuration database is configured to permit the user to filter incidents and vehicles;
- the dynamic icons are in a hover state until the user selects one of the dynamic icons; and
- the mapping configuration database selects the CAD data and the GIS data for release on a dynamic crowd-sourced public map, the dynamic crowd-sourced public map being configured to: enable an end-user to select specific types of incidents for display; enable the end-user to filter the CAD data and the GIS data; and enable the end-user to display the CAD data and the GIS data on client devices.
20. The method of claim 11, wherein a cloud-based mapping system is configured to:
- include a map client;
- track features for dynamic objects; and
- incorporate single sign-on protocols.
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Type: Grant
Filed: Nov 6, 2023
Date of Patent: Sep 8, 2026
Assignee: CENTRALSQUARE TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (Lake Mary, FL)
Inventors: Ye Zhou (Oviedo, FL), Ryan Trenholm (Kelowna), Jason Parker (Clarkesville, GA), Emily Dalton (Harrisonburg, VA)
Primary Examiner: Jean M Corrielus
Application Number: 18/502,601
International Classification: G06F 16/00 (20190101); G01C 21/00 (20060101); G06F 3/04817 (20220101); G06F 9/451 (20180101); G06F 16/23 (20190101); G06F 16/29 (20190101);